The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been without starting quarterback Baker Mayfield for the last three games due to a dislocated thumb, but he’s set to make his return against the Carolina Panthers in Week 7.
At 1-5, the Buccaneers have little margin for error, but the season isn’t over just yet. They still play in a weak NFC South, with all six of their divisional matchups remaining on their schedule.
Tampa Bay kicks off that divisional stretch with back-to-back games against the Panthers and Atlanta Falcons. Winning both of those matchups could completely change the trajectory of this season, and Mayfield’s return from injury couldn’t come at a better time.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers need Baker Mayfield to spark a season turnaround
Mayfield spoke to reporters after practice on Thursday and confirmed he feels comfortable gripping and throwing the ball, and that his thumb has gotten to a place where he’s strong enough to play. Barring a setback, he’s ready to reclaim his starting job in Week 7.
He also revealed that his personal goal was to beat the initial three-week recovery timeline prescribed by head coach Todd Bowles and return in Week 6 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but he ultimately just wasn’t ready.
Prior to his injury, Mayfield was playing arguably the worst football of his Bucs career. Through three games, he led the Buccaneers to an 0-3 record and was responsible for three total touchdowns (two passing, one rushing) and five turnovers (two interceptions, three fumbles).
Now that Mayfield is back healthy, Tampa Bay is counting on him to bounce back from his weak start and get back to playing like the franchise quarterback they know he can be. An improved Mayfield is the Bucs’ only hope if they want to turn this season around.
“Gotta take it one game at a time. Our opponent this week is the one leading the division, and so we gotta take care of business this week and that’s all that matters… it’s gonna be a one game at a time mentality, but listen, our guys are ready for it, and we’ll see what happens,” said Mayfield.
Baker Mayfield is the unquestioned leader of the locker room, and the heart and soul of this Buccaneers team. Getting him back is a huge boost for Tampa Bay. If anybody can light a fire under this team and get them back on track for a second-half turnaround, it’s Mayfield.
Add us as a preferred source on Google